Nationalism

Introduction

Nationalism is a political ideology that emphasizes the interests of a particular nation or ethnic group, particularly with the aim of gaining and maintaining self-governance, or full sovereignty, over the group's homeland. The political ideology therefore holds that a nation should govern itself, free from outside interference and is linked to the concept of self-determination. Nationalism is further oriented towards developing and maintaining a national identity based on shared characteristics such as culture, language, race, religion, political goals or a belief in a common ancestry.

A flag waving in the wind, symbolizing the pride and identity of a nation.

Historical Overview

Nationalism has been a recurring facet of civilizations since ancient times, though the modern sense of national political autonomy and self-determination was formalized in the late 18th century. Examples of nationalist movements can be found throughout history, from the Jewish revolts of the 2nd century, to the re-emergence of Persian culture during the Parthian Empire, to the re-assertion of Greek culture during the Hellenistic period.

Types of Nationalism

Nationalism may manifest itself as part of official state ideology or as a popular non-state movement and may be expressed along civic, ethnic, cultural, religious or ideological lines. These self-definitions of the nation are used to classify types of nationalism. However, such categories are not mutually exclusive and many nationalist movements combine some or all of these elements to varying degrees. Nationalist movements can also be classified by other criteria, such as scale and location.

Civic Nationalism

Civic nationalism, also known as liberal nationalism, is a form of nationalism identified by political philosophers who believe in a non-xenophobic form of nationalism compatible with liberal values of freedom, tolerance, equality, and individual rights.

Ethnic Nationalism

Ethnic nationalism, also known as ethno-nationalism, is a form of nationalism wherein the "nation" is defined in terms of ethnicity. The central theme of ethnic nationalists is that "nations are defined by a shared heritage, which usually includes a common language, a common faith, and a common ethnic ancestry".

Cultural Nationalism

Cultural nationalism is a form of nationalism in which the nation is defined by a shared culture. It is an intermediate position between ethnic nationalism on one hand and civic nationalism on the other. It will, therefore, will focus on a national identity shaped by cultural traditions and language, but not on the concepts of common ancestry or race.

Religious Nationalism

Religious nationalism is the relationship of nationalism to a particular religious belief, dogma, or affiliation where a shared religion can be seen to contribute to a sense of national unity, a common bond among the citizens of the nation.

Ideological Nationalism

Ideological nationalism is a kind of nationalism that is important in many independence movements. It is a nationalism that is not based on race, religion, or language, but on political ideas.

Nationalism and Patriotism

Nationalism should not be confused with patriotism. Patriotism is of its nature defensive, both militarily and culturally. Nationalism, on the other hand, is inseparable from the desire for power. The abiding purpose of every nationalist is to secure more power and more prestige, not for himself but for the nation or other unit in which he has chosen to sink his own individuality.

Criticisms and Controversies

Nationalism is a hotly debated issue and it has been the subject of numerous criticisms. Critics argue that nationalism can lead to conflict with other nations, particularly if a nationalist movement seeks to create a new state at the expense of another, or if it seeks to assert its own culture at the expense of a multicultural society. It can also lead to internal conflict if a nationalist movement seeks to suppress or marginalize minority groups within a nation.

Conclusion

Nationalism, with its focus on self-determination, cultural identity, and sovereignty, has been a powerful force in shaping the world's history. While it has been the source of much conflict and controversy, it has also been a source of pride, unity, and cultural revival. As such, it remains a significant and potent political ideology in the modern world.